hybrids...?

I"m am a sophmore in highschool, and my dad told me that he would teach me to play the bass when we get one (his estimated time, atleast 2 years... no good )- He had taught himself with only a little help from a bass player here and there...anyways, Ive been looking around at different basses. I'd like a carved, but I have to purchase it myself and I'd like ot have a bass by mid-summer, even though my dad will float me $500 if I let him play it, I still need a somewhat "inexpensive" instrument- I've heard the debates between the laminated and carved, but what about the hybrids? I've only seen the strunal so far... I'd appreciate any information or links that can be provided. I'd also like to know- are pawn shops, second hand stores and things of that nature good to check out once in a while...(in that highly unlikely situation that they have a string bass...)? Any suggestions on where to purchase a hybrid...? Thanks. "Dagg"